By Tony Achidria

The Board of directors has today met staff of National Environment Management Authority. This is the first meeting between the NEMA Board and the NEMA staff following the adoption of the new staff structure that commenced on July 1, 2023. This encounter marked the dawn of a new era, symbolizing collaboration, innovation, and the promise of a brighter future.

Speaking at the meeting the NEMA Executive Director, Dr. Barirega Akankwasah who also serves as secretary to the Board thanked the Board of directors led by the Board Chairperson, Prof. James Okot-Okumu for spearheading the restructuring process. The Executive Director set the tone for the gathering, recognizing the importance of this occasion in NEMA’s journey.

The Senior Managers of the four departments – Human Resource, Finance and Administration; Enforcement and Field Operations; Environment Planning and Coordination; and Environment Compliance – took the stage, introducing their respective teams.

Each of the board members including Dr. John Ekure, Mr. Can Amos Lapenga, Dr. Priscilla Nyadoi, Hon. Eng. Yorokamu Katwiremu, Ms. Sarah Mayengo and Mr. Jimmy Kuka Chemonges welcomed the staff to the institution and gave remarks centred around the company’s renewed vision and strategic objectives.

Acknowledging the value of collaboration, the meeting featured interactive sessions, allowing staff members to share their insights and ideas. A representative presented a staff memorandum, highlighting key concerns, with a notable emphasis on the need for a review of staff remuneration. Mr. Can Amos Lapenga, Chairperson of the Human Resource Committee of the NEMA Board, assured the staff that the concern was under examination in consultation with the Ministry of Public Service.

In his address, Prof. James Okot-Okumu, NEMA Board Chairperson, reminded the staff of the board’s critical role in reviewing and approving policies aligned with NEMA’s mission, vision, and values. Emphasizing the importance of good corporate governance, he commended the staff for their dedication to environmental stewardship, particularly in the face of climate change challenges.

However, Prof. Okot-Okumu issued a stern warning against corruption and incompetence, asserting that such issues would be addressed with the urgency they deserve. “NEMA’s mission to safeguard the environment demands integrity. It is crucial that we regain the trust of the public, and with collective resolve, we can achieve it,” he emphasized.

The inaugural meeting between the Board of Directors and the newly recruited staff following the restructuring process stands as a pivotal moment in NEMA’s history. It goes beyond a simple convergence of leaders and employees – it is a celebration of unity, collaboration, and a shared vision as NEMA embarks on this new and promising chapter in its journey towards environmental stewardship.